Stuttering and Therapy For Children Under 6 Years.
Stuttering is more common than people realise, particularly in young children, and early intervention will make a meaningful difference.
What is stuttering?
Stuttering involves disruptions in the smooth flow of speech. Stuttering can look like:
- Repetition of sounds, words or phrases (b-b-b-ball)
- Prolonging or stretching sounds (mmmum)
- Getting “stuck” on a word, where no sound comes out
It’s important to know that stuttering is not caused by nervousness, parenting style, or a lack of intelligence. It is a neurodevelopmental condition, and many children who stutter are bright, capable communicators.
Stuttering often begins in early childhood, typically between 2–3 years of age, during a time of rapid language development.
https://www.stutteringhelp.org
How is stuttering treated?
Stuttering can be effectively managed, especially when support is provided early. Speech pathologists use evidence-based approaches tailored to each child and family.
Treatment usually focuses on:
- Supporting smooth and confident speech
- Reducing severity and frequency of stuttering
- Building a child’s confidence and positive communication experiences
- Coaching parents to support their child’s speech at home
One of the most widely researched and effective treatments for young children is the Lidcombe Program.
http://hdl.handle.net/2123/977
What is the Lidcombe Program?
The Lidcombe Program is a behavioural treatment for children under 6 years of age who stutter. It is supported by strong research and evidence and is used by Speech Pathologists around the world. The Lidcombe program is considered ‘gold’ standard for effectiveness in treating childhood stuttering.
A key feature of the program is that parents play an active role in supporting their child’s speech.
The program involves:
- Weekly sessions with a speech pathologist.
- Parents learning how to give helpful, positive feedback during everyday conversations.
- Practising strategies in a relaxed and supportive way at home.
- Regular monitoring of the child’s progress
Importantly, the Lidcombe Program is designed to be:
- Play-based and child-friendly
- Positive and encouraging (not critical or stressful)
- Integrated into everyday routines
The Lidcombe Program is highly effective, with studies showing that roughly 90% of children achieve a very low level of stuttering within 6–12 months of treatment. This makes it one of the most successful early intervention approaches available for young children who stutter.
How we can help at Perth Speech Therapy
At Perth Speech Therapy (PST), our speech pathologists are trained in delivering the Lidcombe Program and supporting children who stutter.
We work closely with families to:
- Assess your child’s speech and communication
- Develop an individualised therapy plan
- Coach you in using effective strategies at home
- Provide ongoing support throughout your child’s progress
If you’ve noticed your child is stuttering or are feeling unsure, early advice can make a big difference.
If this sounds familiar, we’re here to help.